4 Tips For Starting A Veterinary Internship

Posted on: 2 June 2020

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Internships are a valuable tool for anyone entering a new career. They allow people to receive hands-on training that they might not have otherwise gotten. Here are four tips for anyone hoping to start a veterinary internship:

1. Start your internship hunt as early as possible

Many veterinary internships are designed for people who have already secured their degree in veterinary medicine, but not all of them are. There are internships available for people who are still in college. Some vet internships are even available to high school students who would one day like to pursue veterinary medicine. No matter what your current education level is, there is likely a vet internship for you. Start your search as early as possible to give yourself a headstart on your future career. Gaining as much on-the-job experience as you can will help you in the future.

2. Improve your resume

Many applicants want the chance to intern for a veterinarian, which means the competition will be fierce. Make yourself stand out by continuously working to improve your resume. If possible, speak to veterinarians directly to find out what kind of experience they're looking for in potential applicants. Improving your resume involves brushing up on your writing skills, but it may also involve seeking the types of experiences that make you an outstanding candidate. For example, volunteering at your local animal shelter will look good on your resume, which might make you more likely to score the internship you desire.

3. Broaden your search

If you're having difficulty finding veterinary internship opportunities, remember that vets work in many different fields. Wildlife veterinarians keep animals in the zoo healthy, and marine veterinarians often work in aquariums. Some veterinarians work with groups making conservation efforts. Don't be afraid to broaden your search. Your next vet internship opportunity may come from somewhere you least expect.

4. Work hard at your internship

People aren't restricted to only working one internship. You may want to take on additional internships in the future as you progress through your veterinarian training. Succeeding at one internship will make it easier for you to get another one in the future since you can use your former boss as a reference. Make sure you work hard at your internship. Ask questions, be helpful, and go above and beyond the requirements of your job description. Earning a reputation as a hard worker will help you in the future.